Cold sores are contagious and the virus can pass to another person through direct contact.
Cold sores are most commonly spread through direct contact with an infected person, such as kissing or sharing personal items like lip balm or utensils. The virus can also spread through contact with infected saliva.
It’s important to note that you can also spread the virus when you don’t have a blister or other symptoms. You’re still a carrier even if the virus is dormant in your body. You’re most contagious when blisters are present, so wait until a blister completely heals and scabs over before coming in close contact with anyone.